Polycythemia Vera Treatment Added to NCCN Guidelines
The addition of rusfertide offers a new standard of care for adults managing this rare blood disorder.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Cancer
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The National Comprehensive Cancer Network has added the drug rusfertide to its guidelines as a Category 1 treatment for polycythemia vera. This update follows the FDA's recent approval of the medication for adults living with the condition.
Why it matters
Managing polycythemia vera is critical for preventing serious blood clots and reducing symptoms like fatigue and pruritus. Maintaining hematocrit levels below 45% is a key clinical goal, and this update standardizes the use of this new therapy to reach that threshold.
The NCCN recommendation is supported by clinical data from the Phase 3 VERIFY study of 293 patients and the Phase 2 REVIVE study. These trials assessed the drug's efficacy in managing hematocrit levels, though researchers continue to monitor outcomes over longer periods.
The players
National Comprehensive Cancer Network
An alliance of leading cancer centers that establishes evidence-based clinical practice guidelines to standardize oncology care.
Takeda
A global pharmaceutical company focused on oncology and rare diseases that holds exclusive rights to develop and distribute rusfertide.
The details
Rusfertide acts as a first-in-class hepcidin mimetic, meaning it works by mimicking a natural hormone that regulates how iron is distributed and used for red blood cell production. By controlling this process, the medication helps keep red blood cell levels within a target range. It is administered through once-weekly subcutaneous injections, and common side effects identified in trials include injection site reactions and anemia.
Timeline
August 28, 2026: The FDA approved rusfertide for adults with polycythemia vera.
September 18, 2026: The NCCN updated its Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology.
September 21, 2026: Takeda announced the inclusion of the drug in the new guidelines.
Health Landscape
The NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology for Myeloproliferative Neoplasms provide the framework for standardized care across the United States. This update incorporates a novel mechanism of action into the clinical toolkit for managing hematocrit levels in patients with polycythemia vera.
Patients with polycythemia vera should consult their hematologist or oncologist to determine if this new guideline-supported treatment is an appropriate option for their specific health needs. It is important to discuss potential side effects, such as injection site reactions, during these visits.
The takeaway
The addition of rusfertide to the NCCN guidelines signifies a shift in the standard of care for controlling red blood cell production in polycythemia vera patients. Those living with this condition should maintain a dialogue with their care team regarding symptoms like fatigue and pruritus.
Further reading
For more information on the latest treatment standards, visit our Cancer section.
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